Double-decker saves biker thrown off Dadar TT flyover

The 42-year-old victim is critical though the bus saved him from certain death, doctors at Sion Hospital are currently treating him for multiple fractures and head injuries

A 42-year-old man was severely injured as he fell off the Dadar TT flyover after being hit by a car on Monday night. A double-decker bus, passing under the flyover, broke his fall and saved his life, eye-witnesses told mid-day.

Anwar Atiullah Shaikh, who was riding his Honda Activa, was hit and pushed to the wall of the flyover by a speeding car. Pic/Atul Kamble

Motorists who witnessed the accident said Anwar Atiullah Shaikh, who was riding his Honda Activa, was hit and pushed to the wall of the flyover by a speeding car. While the scooter was sandwiched between the car and the wall, Shaikh – later identified as a Kurla resident – was thrown off.

“It happened at 9.20 pm,” said an eyewitness. “The car driver, who was traveling along with three other women, lost control and pinned the scooter with the man and a pillion rider against the boundary wall.”

The pillion rider also sustained injuries, but since he got stuck with the vehicle he didn’t fall down. The two were riding home from Shaikh’s Bombay Central workplace.

A double-decker bus was passing on the road below just as Shaikh fell and broke his fall.

“I saw him falling on the bus and then falling on the ground,” said an onlooker below the flyover. “Had he directly fallen down on the road, there was no chance he would have survived the fall.”

Passersby rushed Shaikh to Sion Hospital, where he is in the Intensive Care Unit.

His brother Salim told mid-day that Shaikh has suffered severe head injuries. “We only know that he was coming back home on his bike. Police officials from the hospital informed us about the case. He is very serious and is admitted in the ICU of the hospital,” said Salim.

Doctors said Shaikh was brought by 9.40 pm and was admitted to the Emergency Surgery Room (ESR). They said his condition is critical due to the multiple fractures and head injuries.

The Matunga police have filed a case of negligence against the car driver. Investigating officer Pradeep Patil told mid-day that they have managed to get the number and address of the car driver.

“We are taking witness statements. We will arrest the driver soon,” said Patil.